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Photography

Course overview

This creative course will enable you to produce a professional portfolio and introduce you to this cutting-edge discipline.

Entry requirements

At least five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including English Language or Maths. If your English Language is a D/3, your Maths must be at least a C/4 and vice versa

or

A Level 2 BTEC Diploma or above and GCSE English Language or Maths at grade C/4 or above. Grade C/4 or above in an Art, Design or Media based GCSE is preferred.

Students will be required to present a portfolio or sketchbook of art work as part of the interview process to demonstrate commitment and potential.

What will I study?

Lasting for two years, you will gain a unique insight into individual areas like digital animation, fine art installation, self-published books and the compilation of stylish independent imagery.

Extensive photography, photoshop editing and a vast range of darkroom wet processes and techniques will also form a large part of your learning, enabling you to build on your current skills and knowledge.

You will find yourself steadily pushed yet supported by our dedicated staff, enabling you to create professional pieces for your portfolio.

Although an intensive course, it will teach you everything you need to know about becoming a professional photographer.

Assignments through our College Company Live Creative will give you the opportunity to produce work published and used by local companies.

Previous projects have included photography for the Wat Tyler Country Park website and a magazine spread for Runbo.

Modules

Year One

Unit 1 - Introduction to Visual Language

Unit 2 - Introduction to Research Skills

Unit 3 - Introduction to Critical and Contextual Awareness

Unit 4 - Introduction to Materials, Processes and Technical skills

Unit 5 - An integrated approach to 2D problem solving

Unit 6 - An integrated approach to 3D problem solving in Art & Design

Unit 7 - An integrated approach to time-based problem solving

Unit 8 - Developing an Art & Design project

Unit 9 - Opportunities for Progression

Year Two

Unit 10 - Characteristics and Contexts

Unit 11 - Preparation for Progression in Art & Design

Unit 12 - Engaging with an Audience in Art & Design

Unit 13 - Project Proposal and Realisation in Art & Design

Why study Photography at USP?

Links with local professional businesses and enterprises via the College Company Live Creative

Trips/visits to Southend and London Galleries

Expert tutor experience and subject knowledge

Links to local industry and strong work experience placements

What could I do next?

Continue your studies at USP College with our Foundation Diploma or HND in Art & Design (see page 86) or a related degree at university or a specialist arts college.

Study an Apprenticeship to gain further work experience.

Move directly into employment in a related industry such as advertising, publishing, print and media industries.